Natural Attractions

In Tennessee, nature takes you out-of-bounds. Behold a cave chandelier, an underground sea, habitats of waterfowl, fish, reptiles and amphibians. Ferret through our forests. Step into what’s fascinating in Tennessee.

At Short Spring Natural Area, you’ll be in one of the best wildflower locations in the state and on a trail where you can observe geologic formations that contrast the Highland Rim and the Central Basin of Middle Tennessee. The Tennessee River Gardens and Nature Preserve illustrates spectacular wildflower gardens and wildlife along with the seasonal Butterfly Pavilion.

On East Tennessee Crossing Scenic Byway, the rich landscape shadows the original Wilderness Road across Clinch Mountain and Cumberland Gap. This path is also the legendary bootlegging corridor of Thunder Road. You’ll see a bird’s-eye panorama as you wind through majestic mountains, whitewater rapids, farms and artisan communities known for crafts, quilting and bluegrass music.